Middlesbrough host Reading on Saturday at the Riverside with Boro boss Jonathan Woodgate hoping to build on a three match unbeaten run.
Reading sit one point above Middlesbrough in 16th, with the Teessiders down in 18th.
Both sides will see this as a good opportunity to get points on the board. A stop start campaign so far for Boro could be down to the change of manager and the change in style of play, and Reading will think this is the best time to play Middlesbrough as a result.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Reading manager Jose Gomes spoke highly of this weekend’s opponents.
We must expect a tough game,” he said on Wednesday. “They try to play more but they don’t have any problems giving long balls or putting crosses in, so we must be ready for it.
“We’ll be expecting them to start the game very strong.”
Gomes named two Boro players he feels could have a big impact on the game, but did state there were others who will certainly play a part.
“They have a strong dynamic in the middle, four players who can shoot very well from outside the box, Fletcher and Assombalonga can get in behind.
“We know how they play and know what we must do but the most important thing is we are ready to take the challenge.”
Gomes confirmed Reading’s Matt Miazga ‘is out’ and Josh Barrett is also expecting to be missing having come down with a fever. But Tyler Blackett does have a chance after rejoining training this week.